Alpine Flax
linum alpinum
Also known as: ["Alpine Linseed","Mountain Flax"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to alpine regions, known for its delicate blue flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Genus: | Linum |
| Botanical Name: | Linum alpinum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F/10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially at night.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent night temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may be slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or necrosis in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or dieback in prolonged cold or frost.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging; move indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F/4°C.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only; avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLinum alpinum is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLinum alpinum is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLinum alpinum, commonly known as Alpine Flax, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption and does not produce any known adverse physiological effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Linum alpinum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Alpine Flax suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils typical of alpine environments.
Q: How often should Alpine Flax be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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